Real Estate Corner - VIBE MAGAZINE Spring 2023
By Bernadette Donohue, Contributing Author & REALTOR®

Nurturing Your Inner Child

Could an amusing and thought-provoking conundrum really be the true meaning of life? Recently, as I was showing a charmingly adorned vacation home, a seemingly silly wall hanging caught my eye. It said, "What if the Hokey Pokey Really Is What It's All About?" As I pondered this whimsical question, it began to resonate with me on a deeper level, filling me with a profound sense of lightheartedness and joy.

Surrounded by nature's lush greenery, remarkable foliage, rugged mountains, and crystal-clear lakes, people who live in the White Mountain region have a continued opportunity to return to their inner child in a playful and curious way. With direct access to an expansive natural playground, there are endless opportunities to experience and share some unforgettable adventures and build lasting memories with family and friends.

Last year, a large group of Badger Peabody & Smith Realty agents and staff joined together on a team-building excursion in the northern White Mountain region. Bumping along dusty mountain trails, climbing over steep terrain, being splashed by deep mud puddles, we bonded by the exhilaration of an exciting ATV adventure. Similarly, on a previous work-related outing, I was introduced to a zip-lining adventure. The following year, I took my eldest, and together we experienced heart-pounding thrills. Flying through the air, past fiery autumn colors, overlooking a stunning mountain range at Bretton Woods, was a mother-daughter bonding adventure that I will always treasure.

To live and raise a family in such an exciting and inspiring place like Mt. Washington Valley makes it easy to remember what life is about when surrounded by nature and adventure. Maybe that's why my younger self gravitated to this captivating area, which led me to remain, reside, and raise my family here as well. The inspiring spirit this region offers has become a cornerstone to life in the Valley and continually helps me to stay in touch with my inner child. Grateful to put down new roots in a place where living, loving, and playing are fundamentals of life.

Not surprisingly, over recent years, we have seen a dramatic increase in visitors and residents coming to live and play in the Valley. Home sales have soared with folks excited to experience the magic this area offers. Many also want to be part of a growing community who live and play here on a year-round basis. Like so many beautiful and desirable areas of the world, the pandemic created an influx, and thus, a shortage of housing and rental inventory with a quickened uptick in popularity. Thus, while the gap may seem vast for those looking to settle immediately, our regions are now seeing many encouraging signs for those looking to own or rent. As new properties are under construction, many others are in the planning stages. Also, there is a resurfacing of existing homes and condos due to property owners, changing needs and some exceptional market enticements. All of this will open doors to new listings in 2023. Patience may still be a necessity while waiting for the right property to surface, so keep in mind that the rewards remain great for all those willing to wait. In the meantime, be sure to indulge in some local fun to bring back that childish joy—truly one of life's essential ingredients to health and happiness.

Living in the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire provides ample opportunity to nurture your inner child, and if you allow yourself the freedom to indulge, this is a place that will allow you and yours to feel renewed, rejuvenated, and reinvigorated.

Bernadette Donohue
REALTOR & Certified Residential Specialist, CRS
Visit Bernie's agent website.

Contact Bernie at Badger Peabody & Smith Realty

• BernieD@BadgerPeabodySmith.com
• Office - (603) 356-5757 x 310
• Cell - (207) 542-9967